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Joël Piroe looks set to be the next West Ham signing of the summer window. Nuno Espírito Santo’s side look to have cooled off on long-time striker target Troy Parrott, whose move to Real Betis is looking increasingly likely. The Hammers have since pivoted to Piroe of Leeds, with the 27-year-old expected to soon undergo a medical at West Ham. As reported by ExWHUEmployee, the deal will be a loan with an obligation to buy, which would likely be triggered if the Irons clinch promotion. Of course, there was much excitement among West Ham fans when a deal for Parrott looked close. The Irishman has been in red-hot form since his move to the Netherlands in 2024, and many Hammers fans were disappointed when the move seemingly collapsed. But perhaps this revelation could prove a blessing in disguise for the Hammers, who look set to sign what could prove a more effective option – for this season at least. Unlike Parrott, Piroe is a proven Championship star. Across 179 games in the division with Leeds and Swansea, he has scored 73 goals and provided 18 assists. In 2024/25, he secured the Championship Golden Boot as Leeds reached 100 points to return to the Premier League. In 43 Championship games, Parrott only scored three times and generally struggled before his move to AZ Alkmaar. In that Golden Boot season, Piroe also played alongside new Hammers signing Manor Solomon, fostering a great understanding with the Irons’ new No. 10 – which could be replicated in East London. Additionally, Piroe is much less of a financial risk for West Ham. Despite being only two-and-a-half years older than Parrott, his valuation of £10-13 million is half that of the Irish international. Given that he is a proven commodity in English football, he could prove better value for money. A move for Troy Parrott would show great ambition on West Ham’s part, but Piroe is the much more reliable option. Additionally, a loan deal for the player would allow the Irons to fund more transfers to bolster what barely resembles a squad right now. The Suriname international may not be the most exciting option, but he could just well be the correct one.